Mothers pass many things on to their daughters, whether through nature or nurture. Genes are inevitably inherited by their daughters who reflect their mother’s physical features: silky hair, a smattering of freckles, a deep velvety voice; but mothers often pass on more than just their physical attributes; they pass along tips, knowledge, and wisdom.
I was recently on the receiving end of one of these weathered bits of wisdom, in the form of a very small handbook titled: “50 Ways to Wear a Scarf” from the 1967 Good Housekeeping Fashion Department that used to belong to my Grandmother.
This faded book came straight from the depths of my grandmother’s closet and on the subject of scarves, notes, “from perky cottons to pale chiffons, they twist and twine, fold and float, creating magic throughout your wardrobe, stretching it on and on and on.” Now, although I may not put it in those terms exactly, scarves certainly can do magic for an outfit and, I must admit, my wardrobe has certainly enjoyed the addition of a few silk numbers, floral prints, and touchable cashmeres.
I’ve included some of my favorite pages from this pamphlet, and although the text may not be entirely legible, I’m sure you’ll get the picture.